One of the main attractions to Bali is that it has something for everyone. Whether its lounging on the beach, surfing, cultural pursuits or mountain scenery, you can find it on Bali. Here's our list of the not-to-be-missed sights.
Tours to many of the sights can be booked through our affiliate Viator. By booking in advance through Viator, you'll be sure to get the tours you want, and you won't be suprised at the cost. Look for the tour page in the destination where you're staying to find links.
The Kecak Dance & Pura Ulu Watu
On Bali, dancing is still a regular part of Balinese life. Most Balinese dancing is closely related to the classical dancing of other Southeast Asian cultures. But an absolute "must see" for visitors to Bali is the Kecak dance performance. This is the most unique form of Balinese dance, so be sure to reserve an evening for it.
The best place to see the Kecak dance, in our opinion, is the cliff-top temple of Pura Ulu Watu at the south-western tip of Bali.
Goa Gajah
Not far from the central Bali town of Ubud is Goa Gajah, popularly known as the Elephant Cave. The cave, which is carved into a cliff face, probably dates back to at least the 11th century.
The Besakih Temple ComplexHindu Temples on Bali
Besakih Temple Complex
The most important temple on Bali is the Besakih Complex, often called the "mother temple" of Bali. Located up on the side of the Mount Agung volcano, the complex consists of more than 20 temples.
Goa Lawah Bat Cave
On Bali's east coast is the Goa Lawah Bat Cave temple. This temple is important for matters related to the afterlife, and thus is often the site of funerals.
Tanah Lot
Among the most photographed temple on Bali is the seaside islet of Tanah Lot. It is popular as a scenic spot at sunset, but get there earlier if you want to avoid the crowds.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
High up in the mountains at the center of Bali is Lake Bratan. On the shores of this lake is the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple, one of those "postcard" temples that feature on many travel posters and guidebooks.
Tirta Gangga Water PalaceRoyal Palaces
Taman Gili
In Klungkung, on Bali's east coast, is the Taman Gili, the "moated garden" that is all that remains of a royal palace. The open-air pavillions were once used as the royal "high courts."
Tirta Gangga Water Palace
In the hills of the east coast, the former king of Karangesem built a 'water palace' at Tirta Gangga to escape the summer heat. Not far away, on the coast, is another water palace at Ujung.
Natural Beauty
Gitgit Waterfalls
Along the narrow winding road from Lake Bratan down to Singaraja is the village of Gitgit, where you can stop and see some spectacular waterfalls. While there is a very nice scenery on Bali, Gitgit is one of the few purely natural spectacles on offer, and I think perhaps the most beautiful.